A NEW duo is now leading the tourism sector's biggest voice in Suffolk.Chris Bushby, chief executive of the Suffolk Agricultural Association, and Noel Byrne, operations director at the Bedford Lodge Hotel in Newmarket, have been elected as chair and vice-chair respectively of the Suffolk Tourism PartnershipThe Suffolk Agricultural Association runs the Suffolk Show, one of the county's biggest attractions, with its Trinity Park home also now being a significant conference venue.

A NEW duo is now leading the tourism sector's biggest voice in Suffolk.

Chris Bushby, chief executive of the Suffolk Agricultural Association, and Noel Byrne, operations director at the Bedford Lodge Hotel in Newmarket, have been elected as chair and vice-chair respectively of the Suffolk Tourism Partnership

The Suffolk Agricultural Association runs the Suffolk Show, one of the county's biggest attractions, with its Trinity Park home also now being a significant conference venue.

“The connections between agriculture and tourism have never been stronger,” said Mr Bushby. “Food promotion, agricultural diversification and our new conference and exhibition facility at Trinity Park show just how important tourism is to the agricultural community. I aim to strengthen these links and help develop new opportunities across the county.”

The Bedford Lodge Hotel is currently holder of the “best hotel” title in the Suffolk Tourism Awards. “I've been with the Suffolk Tourism Partnership since it began four years ago and am looking forward to working with Chris to raise the profile of the county still further,” said Mr Byrne.

“We've been involved in the various campaigns in London and the national press and I lead the training group of the STP. There is much to be done to increase skills for our tourism businesses and I will be championing this cause.”

The Suffolk Development Agency's Tourism Partnership has also recently appointed new members to its executive, increasing the representation around the county.

Scott Dolling, head of tourism at the SDA, said: “We had considerable interest from many people wanting to join this group which is very pleasing.

“Businesses make a real commitment here and as well as contributing to advertising campaigns, time commitments from busy people are just as valued. The tourism partnership is getting things done and with five London campaigns under our belt now, the difference is being felt.”

Tourism is worth £1.024billion to the Suffolk economy and employs around 29,000 people in the county. The Suffolk Tourism Partnership is hosted at the Suffolk Development Agency, and receives funding from East of England Development Agency, Suffolk's local authorities and the private sector.